Ranger Visitor Centre - Tongariro (Fixed term)

• Do you have a passion for connecting people with nature, culture, and outdoor recreation?
• Be part of the team welcoming visitors to one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most iconic Great Walk destinations.
• Salary Range: $62,192 to $67,446 Depending on skills and experience
• Fixed-term full-time role through to April 2027 | based in our Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre

Share your passion for conservation and the outdoors in a frontline role at Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre.

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

Mō te tūranga | About the role
Join us for the 2026/27 Great Walk season as a Ranger Visitor Centre, playing a key role in welcoming and supporting visitors exploring Tongariro National Park and the wider Central North Island region.

Based at the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre in Whakapapa Village, this is one of DOC's most visible frontline roles. As the first point of contact for many visitors, you'll help create memorable and safe experiences by providing accurate information, expert advice, and exceptional customer service.

Tongariro National Park is a Dual-world heritage park, home to three spectacular volcanic peaks and holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. As the gateway to world-renowned experiences including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other recreation opportunities, the visitor centre plays a vital role in helping people connect with this special place.

Working as part of a high-performing and supportive team, you'll assist visitors from around Aotearoa and the world with trip planning, safety information, bookings, retail purchases, and conservation stories that inspire people to care for nature.

The position will be focussed on:

• Providing visitors with up-to-date information about recreation opportunities, conservation projects, and visitor experiences both locally and nationwide.

• Delivering accurate information on weather conditions, track and hut status, transport options, and visitor safety.

• Promoting and selling recreation opportunities, including Great Walks, huts, campsites, and other DOC experiences.

• Supporting visitors to plan safe and enjoyable journeys through Tongariro National Park and surrounding areas.

• Maintaining a welcoming, clean, and well-presented visitor centre environment.

• Consistently delivering high-quality customer service and adhering to visitor centre systems and operating procedures.

This role is fixed term through to April 2027 to support the busy Great Walk season and will involve working weekends, public holidays, and rostered shifts during peak visitor periods.

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
Are you a customer-focused communicator with a passion for conservation and outdoor recreation? Do you enjoy sharing knowledge, helping visitors have safe and memorable experiences, and delivering exceptional service in a fast-paced environment? We're looking for a positive and adaptable team player who thrives on connecting people with the unique landscapes and stories of Tongariro National Park.

If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:

• Exceptional customer service skills and a genuine enjoyment of working with people from diverse backgrounds.

• The ability to maintain high standards while working in a fast-paced and sometimes demanding environment.

• A positive, professional, and collaborative approach to teamwork.

• Strong problem-solving skills, initiative, and a proactive "can-do" attitude.

• Confidence communicating visitor safety information clearly, accurately, and positively.

• Experience in customer service, retail sales, administration, and computer-based systems.

• Knowledge of recreation and tourism opportunities across New Zealand, particularly within Tongariro National Park and the wider Ruapehu region.

• Enthusiasm for conservation, outdoor recreation, and helping others enjoy nature safely.

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Commitment to health, safety, and visitor wellbeing.

• An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, DOC's relationships with Treaty Partners, local communities, and stakeholders.

• Full New Zealand Class 1 Driver Licence

Desirable:

• Knowledge of Tongariro National Park and the wider Ruapehu region.

• Experience in tourism, visitor services, retail, or hospitality.

• Current First Aid Certificate.

• Understanding of te ao Māori and the cultural significance of Tongariro National Park.

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?
DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now
Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate.

Salary: $62,192 to $67,446, depending on skills and experience.
Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.

Please note, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role. 

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 27th October 2026. This advert may close early, so please apply promptly

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Lily Johnston, Ranger project lead at [email protected]